In the administrative structure of the Maratha Empire under Shivaji, which of the following officials held charge of foreign affairs and royal correspondence as a member of the 'Ashta Pradhan'?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Sumant or Dabir was the specific minister within Shivaji's Ashta Pradhan council entrusted with foreign affairs, diplomatic protocols, and advising the sovereign on matters of war and peace with foreign powers. Other members of the council, such as the Peshwa or Amatya, managed general administration and finance respectively. This institutional framework highlights the highly structured administrative system established by the Maratha state. Such administrative terms are staples of medieval Indian history questions.